Entertainment
24 July, 2026
Mamma mia ... it’s started
THE Cairns Italian Festival has kicked-off with a program of food, music, culture and community events from now until 2 August.
Events started with the Post Opera Dinner at Floriana Mediterranean yesterday.
Beats and Spritz follows today (Friday 24 July) at The Benson Hotel, featuring DJs Morena and Mark Pellegrini, Cairns saxophonist Mike Rivett and Italian-inspired disco music from the 1980s to today.
The festival’s signature event, La Festa – Food and Wine, will be held at Fogarty Park tomorrow (Saturday 25 July) from 10am to 10pm, including Italian food and wine, cooking demonstrations, market stalls and a display of classic Italian cars.
Live entertainment throughout the day will feature the Romano Bros, The Italian Stallions and Viva la Diva.
The annual spaghetti eating competition starts at 3.30pm, with registrations opening at 2.45pm near the main stage. The winner will receive a $200 cash prize. Italian Movie Night will be held on Thursday 30 July, from 6.30pm. The Tropicale Italiano Long Lunch at Ollie’s Italian is on Friday 31 July. The long lunch features a share-style Italian menu paired with wines.
Visit www.cnslocal.s.gy/7hXWjn
